About the Lott Leadership Institute for Rising 9th Graders

The Lott Leadership Institute for Rising 9th Graders, a partnership between the University of Mississippi’s Lott Leadership Institute and the Division of Outreach, is a program designed to develop critical thinking and leadership skills in soon-to-be high school freshmen. The program is dedicated to cultivating civic-mindedness in students by deepening their understanding of how government affects individuals and communities. Every year students who complete the program return to their high schools and put their new skills to work for the betterment of the community.

Accepted students come from all over the state of Mississippi as well as neighboring states. They are given a residential experience on the Ole Miss campus, study how government affects individuals and communities and leadership, all while forming bonds with peers in the program. As part of the experience, students mingle with college administrators, student leaders and active community members while participating in current event discussions and decision-making activities. Students will also participate in a service project fostering a deeper connection to the community.

Fifty students will be selected by the Trent Lott Leadership Institute Committee and divided into two cohorts. Both cohorts will participate in the Lott Leadership Institute for Rising 9th Graders for the same two weeks in July.

A principal, guidance counselor, or community mentor must nominate a student in order for the student to receive an application. Only five students per school may be nominated. Students will be invited by email to complete an application once their nomination form has been received from their schools. Students must submit their completed application and required documents prior to December 13, 2024, to be considered by the selection committee.

What Students are Saying

Former participants have shared their feedback with us. Take a look!


“The program helped me realize what it really does take to be a leader, and I got to connect with peers throughout the entire state.”

Student ParticipantSummer 2017

“I got a taste of what it would be like to go to college; that definitely increased my knowledge and awareness so that when I get there, I will have had some experience.”

Student ParticipantSummer 2018

“I am walking out a more confident individual compared to when I walked in. I feel like I’ve had a little taste of college life due to the atmosphere and working on projects with friends.”

Student ParticipantSummer 2018